What Was The Role Of Books In The Fifteenth Century

During the reign of Genghis Khan trade and the exchange of information increased because of the Silk Road which continued for centuries. In the late fifteenth century early sixteenth century the New World was discovered, and a wealth of natural resources began to be transported back to Europe. As economies began to grow and farming became more efficient scholars and skilled craftsmen were able to practice and expand upon their craft. Thus, new questions and ideas were born they spread. These ideas spread because of the increased availability and use of books and more international contact between nations. Key ideas spread because of the increased availability and use of books. Around 1450 AD Johannes Gutenberg in Europe developed the first moveable printing type. This invention made printing books very practical by reducing the time needed to print a copy and thus reducing the cost of developing book. In China moveable type had been developed centuries ago and thus they had large libraries already developed. Since there were many texts available in China at a very inexpensive cost some upper-class women also started becoming engaged in different areas of study. In Japan the adaption of books meant a cultural change. People in the performing arts surged in social stance as entertainment was more sought out by
Now even more people were able to read and form their own opinions and ideas. This meant that more people questioned traditional authority. As more people asked questions new ideas were formed to answer these questions. Many tried to explain not only the natural sciences but also human behavior. Adam Smith attempted to explain economic laws and his philosophies are still studied to this day. Although many Enlightenment thinkers asked questions few would openly critique the church. Galileo for example was tried for heresy by the church and was put under house arrest until his